Modelling multilingual ecologies beyond the L1-L2 Binary.

The article "Modelling multilingual ecologies beyond the L1-L2 Binary" by Enoch O. Aboh and M. Carmen Parafita Couto discusses the role of features and their exponence in descriptive and theoretical models of monolingual and bilingual/multilingual speakers. The authors argue for a uniformitarian approach that does not require a specific cognitive process for multilingual language practices. They propose that exoskeletal approaches, which focus on syntax-driven models and the role of features, offer a sound theoretical framework for modeling multilingual mental grammars. The authors also suggest a paradigm shift that considers the complexities of linguistic features, hybridity, community norms, and multilingualism to develop a more holistic understanding of language. They emphasize the importance of collaboration between theory development and experimental research, as well as the significance of sociohistorical context in studying multilingual grammars. [Extracted from the article]